MEET
THE TEAM
TEAM MEMBERS.
Meet the Changemakers of Siyafunda: Our team is the heartbeat of our mission. Each member brings a unique spirit of innovation, dedication, and a relentless drive to empower through education. Get acquainted with the passionate professionals who are not just part of our team but are the very architects of change in the educational landscape.
Chief of Infinite Possibilities
Chair of Board Member
Erica Wicomb
Founder of Balance the Future Pty Ltd, with a rich 20-year journey in Social & Skills Development for giants like Sasria and the Bryan Habana Foundation. A believer in the power of partnerships, Erica's leadership is marked by inclusivity and innovative thinking. At the heart of her work is the Shared Value Business Model, guiding our foundation's programs with compassion and determination.
Chief Financial Maestro
Treasurer/Board Member
Wouter Van Schaik
Founder/Director of FD on Call and Accounts on Call, revolutionising financial management for SMEs to large corporations in the Western Cape. Wouter's innovative approach offers the expertise of a seasoned Chartered Accountant, structuring businesses for growth without the overheads. His vision ensures that your financial direction is always aligned with prosperity, paying only for your needed expertise.
Guardian of Legality
Board Member
Nicky Lurwengu
Seasoned leader with a track record of excellence from SRC President to his pivotal role at Eduvos. Currently shining as the Director of Operations at LE Consult Group since 2016, he's the driving force behind labour relations, steering disciplinary hearings, wage negotiations, and more with unmatched expertise in labour law.
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Lead Brand Maestro
Board Member
Andrea Slater
Strategic marketing and brand management expert with a heart for corporate social responsibility. Boasting over 12 years in the corporate sphere and a Cum Laude Btech in Public Relations Management, she's all about positive impact and growth. Outside the office, Andrea loves the outdoors, culinary experiments for her little one, and enriching her mind with podcasts. Living by Mahatma Gandhi's words, 'In a gentle way, you can shake the world,' Andrea embodies the spirit of making meaningful change.
Founding Mastermind-in-Chief
Felix Spies
The visionary founder of Split Second Science, with a rich educational background including a BSc in Human Life Sciences with Psychology, a Postgraduate certificate in Science Education, and a Bed Honors in Educational Law, Management, and Systems. Dedicated to nurturing his creation, Felix spends his time innovating in education. When not revolutionizing learning, he’s a sushi aficionado, an avid walker, and a devoted caretaker to his twin calico cats, Arabella and Kutikula.
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Lead Metrics Maestro
Wade Thys
Wade Thys is a dedicated Community Development Specialist with over 15 years of experience and a passion for empowering communities through strategic initiatives and impactful programs. Holding a National Certificate in Community Development and nearing completion of his BA in Development Studies, Wade's drive to effect change has led to the successful implementation of numerous youth, food security, and community resource projects. His unwavering commitment to community resilience and empowerment underscores his role as a transformative leader in regional development.
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Northern Cape Leadership Luminary
Heine Kulsen
Our esteemed Northern Cape Programme Coordinator with an extensive background in education management. With a B.Ed. (Hons) and currently pursuing an M.Ed., Heine brings over 29 years of diverse educational experience, having served as Departmental Head, Acting Principal, and Principal. His expertise is bolstered by a range of qualifications, from SACE and NHBRC certificates to specialized training in anti-bullying, strategic planning, and financial management for educational leaders. Heine's dedication extends beyond administrative roles, actively supporting and nurturing both students and educators through innovative solutions and pastoral care.